We’re counting down the biggest cybersecurity threats of the coming year this week.
Click here to read about Ransomware
Click here to read about Cryptojacking
Click here to find out more about DDoS attacks.
Today, we’ll look at the security flaws that come with smart devices.
THREAT #2: The Internet of Things
The Internet of Things – which refers to interconnected devices like smart speakers and other smart home technology is an example where the technology had gotten ahead of security.
The growth of smart speakers and other smart home tech is intimidating. Unfortunately, there are security gaps in technology due the absence of standardization and user negligence. Smart devices experience an average of 5,200 attacks per month.
In 2018, the Mirai botnet showed that smart bulbs, cameras, locks, routers, and even baby monitors are capable of being used to arrange for a large-scale attack. Hackers have realized that getting access to a computer is harder due to a general awareness of the threat. But they can sneak unto a vacuum cleaner or coffee maker to eavesdrop, trace, spy, and steal.
Unlike computers and phones, where you can find third-party security software, protection for your smart devices depends on updates from the manufacturers. It’s more important than ever to make sure your home Internet is secure and that the various accounts you use with these devices have strong two-factor authentication in place.
We finish up our series tomorrow with part 5.
~ Dean Chester
Author’s bio: Dean Chester is a tech enthusiast, computer geek, and founder of www.cooltechzone.com. This site was created as a non-profit project; it neither sells anything nor advertises any IT product. Together with his brother, Dean is struggling for the internet that is open, globally connected, trustworthy, secure and available to everyone.
Thanks for sharing this useful overview and commentary on interent criminals. I cannot hear this too often and if you like, please provide the same info at this time next year.